Punica granatum is the scientific (binomial) name of which commonly known fruiting plant species?

Introduction / Context:
Scientific names, or binomial names, help uniquely identify plant and animal species across languages and regions. Each name has a genus and a species part. Learning the scientific names of a few common plants is a standard expectation in biology. This question asks you to match the scientific name Punica granatum with the correct common name of the plant.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Punica is the genus name and granatum is the species name.
• The options include several different trees and fruit bearing plants.
• We assume basic exposure to common scientific names in school biology.
• The focus is on correctly associating Punica granatum with its common fruit.

Concept / Approach:
Punica granatum is the botanical name for the pomegranate plant, which produces the well known red, juicy, many seeded fruits. Custard apple, Gulmohar and Silver oak belong to different genera with different scientific names. The binomial nomenclature system uses Latin or Latinised words to avoid confusion from local names. By memorising a few important examples, such as Mangifera indica for mango and Punica granatum for pomegranate, students can answer such questions correctly.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that Punica granatum is a commonly quoted scientific name in school syllabi. Step 2: Recall that Punica granatum refers to the pomegranate plant, known for its edible arils and tough rind. Step 3: Note that custard apple has a different scientific name, Annona squamosa. Step 4: Remember that Gulmohar and Silver oak are ornamental trees belonging to other genera. Step 5: Select pomegranate as the correct common name for Punica granatum.

Verification / Alternative check:
Botanical references and horticulture guides list Punica granatum as the pomegranate species. Descriptions include details about the plant habit, flowers and fruit structure, all associated with pomegranate. Fruit cultivation manuals also use this name when discussing varieties and growing conditions for pomegranate orchards. These consistent references confirm that Punica granatum corresponds to pomegranate and not to the other listed plants.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option a, custard apple, is botanically known as Annona squamosa and therefore does not match Punica granatum.

Option b, Gulmohar, is a flowering ornamental tree commonly identified as Delonix regia.

Option c, Silver oak, is usually referred to as Grevillea robusta in scientific classification.

Common Pitfalls:
Students often confuse scientific names because they may learn many at once. It is easy to mix up names that sound somewhat similar or to remember only the genus. A useful strategy is to create small associations, such as linking granatum with the many grains or seeds inside a pomegranate fruit. Regular revision of a short list of important scientific names also reduces confusion in exams.

Final Answer:
Punica granatum is the scientific name of the Pomegranate plant.